SM Malls in Laguna vows to help prevent the Impending Threat of the Deadly NCov

 all “high-touch” surfaces in SM malls like the escalators   are being clean so as to prevent the possible spread of the virus.

There is an emerging, rapidly evolving threat of a new virus around the world, including the Philippines and  Department of Health is  closely monitoring this outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (named “2019-nCoV”) that was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China.

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in many different species of animals, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can infect people and then spread between people such as with MERS and SARS.

The risk to individuals is said to be dependent on exposure. This is a serious public health threat. The fact that this virus has caused severe illness and sustained person-to-person spread in China is concerning and this is the main reason an initiative for precautionary measures has been taken by the SM Group.

 One of the ways to make sure SM keeps their mall patrons’ safe is by keeping SM Malls clean all the time. SM recently deployed their Sanitation Team to clean railings, escalators, elevators and door handles to make sure they got all the public points covered. 

According to Ms.Niña Wong, Public Relations Manager of SM City San Pablo “Everyone’s safety not only our shoppers but also our front liners are all being given great consideration. Our Mall guards and Mall maintenance are being asked to wear a disposable facemask; the mall also started putting alcohol dispensers at its entrances, comfort rooms, and offices.”

More cases are likely to be identified in the coming days. There is currently no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV infection. The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. “Same practice has been implemented to all the Laguna Malls including SM City Calmba and SM Sta Rosa .” added Ms. Wong.

Mallgoers who feel unwell may proceed to the Mall Clinic at the lower ground level for immediate medical attention. (Nina P. Wong)